Declining Healthcare Affordability: A 2025 Study Overview

A recent study from the West Health-Gallup Affordability Index reveals a troubling decline in healthcare affordability and access among U.S. adults. Data collected in late 2025 shows that only 49% of respondents were financially capable of affording quality care, a decrease from 56% in 2021. This trend is driven by multiple factors, including changes in health policy and rising healthcare costs.

The survey, which gathered responses from over 5,600 adults, highlights significant financial stress caused by healthcare expenses. Notably, about 75% of those surveyed identified healthcare costs as a financial burden, and nearly half expressed concern about affording necessary care in 2026. Among different demographics, younger adults and women experienced the most significant declines in healthcare affordability.

For individuals under 30, the percentage who felt "cost secure" dropped from 46% in 2021 to a mere one-third by 2025. Similarly, the affordability gap between men and women widened, with 57% of men and only 42% of women remaining "cost secure" by the study's end. Older adults, who typically rely on Medicare, also faced reduced affordability, dropping from 73% in 2021 to 61% in 2025.

Participants reported making various sacrifices to manage healthcare costs. For instance, 20% skipped prescribed medications due to expenses, while 30% avoided seeking treatment altogether. This financial strain forced families to cut back on both essential and non-essential spending, negatively impacting their quality of life.

The survey's findings highlight the challenges posed by current healthcare policies and the urgent need for solutions that address cost barriers within the healthcare system. Conducted using Gallup's probability-based Gallup Panel, the study reported a margin of error of plus or minus 2.1 percentage points.